Pat Cummins the individual can say whatever he likes, but the Australian Cricket Captain cannot. It's the position that is the role model, not the person. That's why when people in these positions say these types of things they aren't put in gaol, they aren't charged, they can lose the title.
"What they shouldn't do is act as though their views represent anything other than a personal opinion"
That's just it, Reaper. When Pat Cummins makes a political statement he is not doing it as Pat Cummins the individual, he is doing it as the Australian Cricket Captain, which carries far more weight than the personal opinion of, for example, you. Or me. Or even Pat. Pat also didn't ask the rest of the Australian Team what they think, and he represents them as well.
I agree that within broad boundaries individuals should be able to say whatever they like. But you are wrong that when the Australian Cricket Captain makes a political statement that it is simply a statement from an individual. That is why he can't be making such statements, it is impossible to divorce Pat Cummins' personal opinion from that of the Australian Cricket Captain, without sacking him.
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